Nee Nee 

Alfred Conteh created "Nee Nee", a portrait which stands as a testament to his commitment to portraying the nuances of Black identity. Conteh, born in 1975, grew up amid the tail end of the Black Arts Movement, grappling with the societal narratives and stereotypes imposed on Black individuals. In "Nee Nee," we encounter a figure of strength and contemplation. Her arms are crossed, a gesture that could imply defensiveness, but also self-assuredness. Her gaze is directed away, perhaps lost in thought or focused on something beyond the frame, and creates a palpable sense of inner life. Conteh once stated that his work is about "telling the stories that haven't been told, showing the faces that haven't been seen." He disrupts traditional representations by presenting figures with dignity and complexity. The emotional depth of "Nee Nee" invites us to consider the untold stories and the multifaceted experiences of Black women. Conteh challenges us to confront the historical underrepresentation and misrepresentation, while honoring the resilience and beauty inherent in these narratives.